China is preparing to test its second aircraft carrier.
China's new aircraft carrier could begin sea trials this week.
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| China's Type 001A aircraft carrier prepares for testing. Source: SCMP |
The Type 001A aircraft carrier is China's first domestically built aircraft carrier and is expected to begin sea trials this week, coinciding with the 69th anniversary of the navy's founding.
Earlier, the Liaoning Maritime Safety Administration announced on Friday that three areas in the northeastern Bohai and Yellow Seas would be sealed off for military purposes from April 20 to 28. These are areas near the port of Dalian in Liaoning province, where the aircraft carrier is being built.
The aircraft carrier is expected to enter service later this year, 12 months ahead of schedule. The reason for China's accelerated completion of the ship is believed to be due to the increasing competition between China and the US.
A military source also said there will be a test to test the ship's basic functions, including electrical control, radar, communication systems, as well as leak testing.
The Type-001A is not expected to go far on its maiden voyage, but will mainly travel within the Bohai Sea.